When it comes to tourism in the Southwestern region of Vietnam, it is impossible not to mention Can Tho and Ninh Kieu Wharf. Ninh Kieu leaves an impression of the fascinating views of the river, and the local people's hospitality. When visiting Can Tho, a favorite place of many tourists is Ninh Kieu Wharf. Ninh Kieu Quay is considered a famous symbol that has been accompanying the journey of development of Can Tho.
1. About Ninh Kieu Wharf
- Location
Ninh Kieu Wharf was established in the 19th century. It is now known as Ninh Kieu Park, which is a waterfront, a tourist and cultural landmark of Can Tho City. The wharf is located on the right bank of Hau River, between the confluence of Hau River and Can Tho River. It adjoins Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City.
- Architecture
Ninh Kieu Wharf in Can Tho has an area of over 7,000 square meters. In the park, trees are trimmed carefully, and green lawns grow under the white bricks. At night, the lighting system has made this park much more charming. Lately, Ninh Kieu Park has been upgraded and repaired with beautiful embankments along the Hau River. In the park, there is a famous bronze statue of President Ho Chi Minh with the height of 7.2 meters, placed on a 3.6-meter high platform.
- History of the wharf
Ninh Kieu Wharf used to be a goods trading center, thanks to its advantageous geographical location. The ancient riverside market or the rows of townhouses represent the prosperity of Tay Do land.
There is no historical record of the formation of Ninh Kieu Park. There is an anecdote which says that from the time of Gia Long (Nguyen dynasty), it was originally a river pier at the head of Can Tho market.
In August 1958, the Minister of Home Affairs went from Saigon to Can Tho to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony, and read the Naming Decree for Ninh Kieu Wharf.
Currently, the pier of Ninh Kieu is the center of tourism and entertainment for people. The government removed the markets in the center of the wharf. However, the old houses have been preserved till now. Some places have been renovated, but the French architecture is still intact.
2. When is the best time to visit Ninh Kieu Wharf?
All year round, visitors can visit Can Tho. Because the city is in a tropical monsoon climate, the temperature is at an average of 28 degrees Celsius. Usually, the year is divided into 2 season types - a dry season and a rainy one.
The rainy season is from May to November. The dry season is from December to April. Several tourists fall in love with Can Tho’s rainy season because of the light rain, which is very suitable for exploration and interesting experiences.
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3. Things to do and see in Can Tho's Ninh Kieu Wharf
Ninh Kieu Wharf is a symbol of Can Tho City with the inherent luxury and prosperity of the Mekong Delta. The river is filled with boats full of goods from the delta. Therefore, Ninh Kieu is one of the busiest and most modern destinations in the west of Vietnam.
There are many interesting things to experience in Can Tho, especially the following activities:
3.1. Stroll around Ninh Kieu Park in Can Tho
Ninh Kieu Park has an area of about 7,000 square meters.
Sitting in the park, you can feel the cool, fresh breezes that bring a sense of refreshment and relaxation. In the evening, there are quite a lot of locals and visitors who come to walk, eat and play together. Walking in Ninh Kieu Wharf at night, you will not regret taking a walk to this splendid park!
In Ninh Kieu Park, there is a 7.2-meter tall bronze monument of President Ho Chi Minh. It weighs 12 tons and is placed on a 3.6-meter high pedestal. It is considered a prominent symbol of Ninh Kieu Park. Therefore, if you have the opportunity to come here, do not forget to see the monument of Uncle Ho.
Also, visitors can enjoy the panoramic view of the cable-stayed bridge – Can Tho Bridge. At sunset and at night, Can Tho Bridge looks indescribably beautiful. From the boat, visitors can see the shimmering Can Tho Bridge at night. To enjoy the panoramic view of Ninh Kieu Park from a distance, tourists can rent a boat to travel around. However, you should ask carefully about the price before boarding the boat.
3.2. Enjoy a dinner cruise on Hau River - Must-try activities in Ninh Kieu Quay
- Opening hours: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Your night trip to Ninh Kieu will be incomplete if you miss boarding the yacht. The yacht operates every day to welcome visitors. Here, you have the opportunity to enjoy local delicacies and distinctive performances of reformed theater (Cai luong) by talented singers.
The full moon is the best time to have a Ninh Kieu dinner cruise. You can admire the most beautiful landscape under a full moon while leisurely cruising around. At that time, you can see all the beauty of the Western river. The full moon shines on the gentle, sparkling Hau River, which makes the scenery very poetic.
3.3. Wander around and taste local food at Ninh Kieu Night Market
- Opening hours: 4:00 PM – 12:00 PM
Can Tho's Ninh Kieu Night Market is a perfect choice for those who love street foods.
Ninh Kieu Night Market specializes in selling souvenir goods. The outdoor area comprises street food stalls with various dishes such as dumplings; grilled rice paper, mixed rice paper, fried fish balls, fruits, etc.
At times, the pleasing aroma of street food from a few stalls will fly around and rouse your senses. Don’t forget to enjoy the luscious meals in the market.
The night market is one of the attractive nightlife destinations when coming to Ninh Kieu Wharf in Can Tho.
3.4. Check-in Can Tho Pedestrian Bridge
Can Tho pedestrian bridge, also known as the Love Bridge, is really beautiful. This bridge has an S-shaped design which is similar to the shape of Vietnam. On both sides of the bridge, there are two large lotus light stations. The entire bridge is built with LEDs. The lights have all kinds of eye-catching colors to create a vivid and modern beauty.
This pedestrian bridge connects Cai Khe Islet to Ninh Kieu Wharf. Open to the public in February 2016, the bridge has become one of the must-see destinations for visitors to Ninh Kieu. Walking on the bridge, you will feel relaxed under the wonderful weather of the city at night.
The bridge is a favorite place for young people to take pictures, suitable for both friends and couples on dates. In addition, Can Tho pedestrian bridge is chosen as the place to hold the annual Flower garland and colored lantern festival in Can Tho.
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3.5. Visit Ong Pagoda in Can Tho
Besides, tourists should definitely pay a visit to Ong Pagoda in Can Tho. Ong Pagoda is a sacred and typical Chinese temple in Can Tho City.
Coming here, you will be impressed by hundreds of incense hanging from the ceiling. They smell good all day and night. Each year, the temple welcomes thousands of Buddhists and visitors.
If you intend to visit the temple, make it a priority to dress formally.
Notes when traveling to Ninh Kieu Wharf
- Ben Ninh Kieu is mainly vibrant and busy at night.
- If you accompany the elderly or young children, you should use the tram to visit this place.
- If you intend to visit temples and pagodas, you should prioritize formal clothing, avoid wearing tight shirts or shorts.
- The price of street food at Ninh Kieu night market is quite low; only from 15,000 - 50,000 VND per dish.
The exploration of Ninh Kieu will bring you all kinds of surprises. When you feel tired, you can stop by random restaurants to enjoy delicious food.
In addition to Can Tho, you should also check out other intriguing destinations in Vietnam, such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, and Ha Long. Each destination boasts an abundance of cultural gems, awe-inspiring spectacles, and vibrant dishes.
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Ninh Kieu Wharf is a long-standing tourist destination because of its friendly river scenery and favorable location overlooking the Hau River. The wharf of Ninh Kieu has long become a symbol of the poetic beauty of Can Tho City.
